How to wear denim to work

Aly Walansky is a freelance writer and editor based in New York City. She lives with her two Shorkie-Tzus, Scarlette and Max, and a display of pink polka-dot-themed home decor -- not to mention a selection of flavored vodka. Check out he...

How to... wear denim to work

Can your favorite happy hour jeans also work for your morning meeting? Quite possibly they can — if you follow a few important guidelines.

Dark and professional

Wait...that's not how it goes....

Except it is. "The most basic rule of denim is that dark washes are more formal while light washes are more casual," shares Certified Image Consultant, Wardrobe Organizer and Personal Stylist Lindsay Weiner.

To make denim appropriate for work, opt for a pair of clean and simple dark wash jeans — this means no adornments, no whiskering and definitely no rips or holes. Slim boot cut or straight leg is best for the work environment. Pull off the look by wearing with a button down or a nice crew neck tee and a blazer

Style sessions

Bootcut or trouser styles are also great workplace options when it comes to denim. Darker washes also make it easier to transition your jeans from day to night because of the versatility the color provides. All it takes it a quick change of accessories, like bolder jewelry, an evening clutch and killer heels, and the look of the jeans is instantly elevated to nighttime attire.

Sans the flash

"My go-to work wear when it comes to denim is nothing too flashy; i.e., distressing, embellishments and odd silhouettes. Wearing a sleeker, darker cut pant (not shorts) blends in with most office environment dress codes. Add a structured top, like a silk blouse, and a blazer and you'll cover all your bases,” says Natasha Fussell, Online Stylist at Lonnys.com.